Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, emphasized that increasing wheat and barley production while reducing input costs is crucial to making farming more profitable and sustainable.
Speaking as the chief guest at the 64th All India Wheat and Barley Research Workers’ Workshop held at Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University, Gwalior, Shri Chouhan said that only through the combined efforts of farmers and scientists can India’s agriculture sector achieve new milestones.
The Minister paid tribute to renowned agricultural scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan in his centenary year, recalling his unforgettable contribution to making India self-reliant in food production. Saluting the tireless efforts of farmers and researchers, he said that India today stands strong as a leading agricultural nation on the global stage.
Highlighting achievements over the past decade, Shri Chouhan noted that wheat production has grown from 86.5 million tonnes to 117.5 million tonnes in the last 10–11 years, reflecting an increase of about 44%. While this is a remarkable success, he stressed the need to raise India’s per-hectare productivity to match global standards. He further said that while wheat and rice production is sufficient, the immediate priority is to boost the output of pulses and oilseeds to reduce dependence on imports. The Minister also underscored the nutritional and medicinal value of barley, calling for its wider promotion.
Shri Chouhan urged scientists to focus on developing bio-fortified wheat varieties and to work on preventing the harmful effects of unbalanced fertiliser use on soil quality. He highlighted the need for stubble management and educating farmers about adopting modern technologies. The Minister also assured that the government is taking strict measures against counterfeit fertilisers and pesticides — licenses of erring companies are being cancelled and strict action is being taken against violators.
Calling integrated farming systems the most beneficial model for small and marginal farmers, Shri Chouhan said that combining crop cultivation with animal husbandry, beekeeping, fisheries, and horticulture can significantly increase income and resilience. He also appealed to citizens to adopt indigenous products in daily life and contribute to strengthening the country’s economy.
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